PDF Printing Issues

Why Is Print to PDF Unavailable in Adobe Acrobat Reader?

Natalie Taylor Nov 3, 2026 869 views

Question details

Users are unable to find or use the Adobe PDF printer option when trying to print documents from Adobe Acrobat Reader DC.

How to Fix Print to PDF Unavailable in Adobe Acrobat Reader

Product: Adobe Acrobat Reader DC
Device & OS: Windows 10
Scenario: Attempting to save a document as a PDF file by selecting a virtual PDF printer in the print dialog.
Observed behavior: The 'Adobe PDF' printer is completely missing from the printer selection list in the free Adobe Acrobat Reader application.

Before you start

Check whether you are using the free Adobe Acrobat Reader or a paid version of Adobe Acrobat. The Adobe PDF printer driver is not included in the free Reader version, but alternative built-in Windows options are available.

Solution 1Recommended

Use Microsoft Print to PDF in Windows

Utilize the native 'Microsoft Print to PDF' feature built into Windows 10 and Windows 11 as a direct alternative.

While the Adobe PDF printer is a premium feature, Windows provides a free, system-wide virtual printer that performs the same basic function. This allows you to 'print' any document directly into a standard PDF file.

Open the Print Dialog

Open the document you want to save as a PDF and press Ctrl + P, or go to File > Print.

Select the Microsoft Printer

Click on the 'Printer' drop-down menu and select 'Microsoft Print to PDF' from the list of available devices.

Save the PDF File

Click the 'Print' button. A 'Save Print Output As' dialog box will appear. Choose a destination folder, type a file name, and click 'Save'.

Universal Compatibility: Microsoft Print to PDF works across almost all applications on Windows 10 and 11, not just Adobe Reader.

Solution 2

Upgrade to Adobe Acrobat Standard or Pro

Install a licensed desktop version of Adobe Acrobat to regain access to the proprietary Adobe PDF printer.

Free PDF Creator Alternative

Create, Edit, and Export PDFs Easily with WPS Office

If you are struggling with missing PDF printers, WPS Office offers a free, built-in PDF toolkit. You can effortlessly export Word, Excel, and PowerPoint documents directly to PDF without needing paid Adobe software or external virtual printer setups.

1. Open Your Document: Launch WPS Office and open the file you wish to convert to PDF.
2. Click Export to PDF: Navigate to the 'Menu' at the top left and select 'Export to PDF'.
3. Customize and Save: Choose your export range and quality settings, then click the 'Export to PDF' button to save your file.

Export documents to PDF instantly with a single clickFully compatible with Microsoft Office and standard Adobe PDF formatsIncludes free, built-in PDF reading, editing, and annotation toolsLightweight software that runs smoothly on older devices

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I manually install the Adobe PDF printer in the free Reader?

No. The Adobe PDF printer requires specific drivers and licensing files that are intentionally excluded from the free Adobe Acrobat Reader installer. You must upgrade to a paid version to get it.

What should I do if Microsoft Print to PDF is missing?

You can re-enable it by typing 'Windows Features' into your Start menu search. Open 'Turn Windows features on or off', scroll down to 'Microsoft Print to PDF', check the box, and click OK to install it.

Is there a difference between Microsoft Print to PDF and Adobe PDF?

Yes. While both generate PDF files, the Adobe PDF printer offers advanced configuration options for pre-press settings, CMYK color profiles, and custom page dimensions, which are essential for professional publishing. For everyday use, Microsoft Print to PDF is completely sufficient.

PDF Troubleshooting